David Cameron: 'What they’ve done is inspiring. They’ve made projects happen, bringing about genuine and positive change, and they are building the bigger, stronger society that I want us all to be a part of.' Photograph: Carl Court/PA

Britain's three main party leaders have united in praise for the 50 winners of the first Observer/Nesta New Radicals awards, designed to recognise inspirational and creative Britons making the country a better place.

Commenting on the award-winners, David Cameron said: "The people and organisations recognised today have all made extremely valuable contributions to their communities. What they've done is inspiring. They've made projects happen, bringing about genuine and positive change, and they are building the bigger, stronger society that I want us all to be a part of. I hope their example will motivate others to take action and get involved."

Ed Miliband, the Labour leader, said: "This is a fantastic initiative that will highlight the work that goes on right across the UK to make Britain a better place. It has unearthed some great examples of people taking the initiative to create positive social change."

The inaugural search for Britain's New Radicals began in December with the aim of celebrating the most inspiring people and projects that – in practical ways – are finding ingenious solutions to challenges in areas such as health, education ageing, unemployment, community regeneration and wellbeing.

The panel of judges included Geoff Mulgan, chief executive of Nesta, John Mulholland, editor of the Observer, and digital champion Martha Lane Fox. The 50 winners were selected from hundreds of entrants, reflecting an extraordinary range of innovative projects across the length of Britain.

Observer editor Mulholland said: "It's a thrilling list, and a timely antidote to cynicism and despair. At times in the UK we seem to be deluged by negativity. Well, look at this list and take some time to reflect on the many people and groups who are motivated to do something to materially change the lives of Britons for the better. I think the message is clear – if at all possible, do something. It beats doing nothing."

Nick Clegg, the deputy prime minister, also endorsed what will become an annual celebration. "Britain has a proud history of innovation and creativity which clearly continues to flourish," said Clegg. "The list is a fantastic showcase for the amazing and inspiring projects across the country. The range and diversity of enterprises is striking, from improving the chances of the most disadvantaged young people to making places greener."

The Observer has teamed up with NESTA, the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts, to find 50 new radicals who are actively changing their communities for the better across the UK.
To find out more go to the Twitter hashtag: #50Radicals